Reviewed by Dr Salinda Johnson MD FSCD
Quick answer: Ultherapy is a non-surgical skin-tightening treatment that uses microfocused ultrasound to heat the deeper layers of skin and trigger new collagen. It is used to lift and tighten the brow, face, jawline, neck and décolletage. Results build gradually, with changes usually starting around three months, and a session takes 30 to 90 minutes depending on the area.
How does Ultherapy work?
Ultherapy uses microfocused ultrasound with visualisation (MFU-V). The device lets your practitioner see the layers beneath the skin on an ultrasound screen, so energy can be placed at chosen depths. At each point the ultrasound creates a tiny spot of heat below the surface, while the skin above is left unaffected. Your body responds by producing new collagen, which gradually firms and lifts the area.
Because the practitioner can see where the energy is going, treatment is tailored to your anatomy rather than applied to a fixed pattern.
What does the evidence say?
The microfocused ultrasound technology behind Ultherapy was first cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2009 for brow lifting, and has since been cleared for lifting the neck and under the chin and for improving lines and wrinkles on the décolletage. A 2025 review of 67 studies found consistent improvements in skin firmness, with effects lasting beyond six months in the studies reviewed. It was a narrative review rather than a controlled trial, and individual results vary, which is why we assess each patient before recommending treatment.
Which areas can be treated?
- Brow and temples
- Cheeks and the upper and lower face
- Jawline and under the chin
- Neck
- Décolletage (upper chest)
You can have a single area treated or a full face and neck plan. For the wider picture of lifting options, see our guide to the non-surgical facelift.
Who is Ultherapy suitable for?
Ultherapy suits people with early to moderate skin laxity who want a lift without surgery or recovery time. It is not a substitute for a surgical facelift when there is significant excess skin or heavy sagging. In those cases we will tell you honestly, and may suggest a different treatment or a combination. Suitability is decided at a consultation, where we look at your skin quality, the areas you’re concerned about and your medical history.
What happens during treatment?
- Consultation. Your practitioner discusses the treatment and you sign a consent form.
- Preparation. Your skin is cleaned and prepared.
- Ultrasound scan. The practitioner checks the depth of each area to plan your treatment.
- Treatment. The Ultherapy device is applied to the planned areas. Everyone’s comfort level differs, and most people describe heat or a burning sensation that passes quickly. Talk to your practitioner beforehand about managing discomfort.
- Follow-up. A repeat treatment can be planned if needed.
Treatment takes 30 to 90 minutes depending on the areas treated.
Recovery and side effects
Most people can return to normal activities straight away. You may have redness for a few hours after treatment. Some people notice swelling, tingling or tenderness, which usually settles quickly. If you notice anything that worries you, contact the clinic.
When will I see results, and how long do they last?
Results are not instant, because collagen takes time to build. Most people start to see a change around three months after treatment. The effects can last over a year, although this varies with your age, skin quality and lifestyle. We’ll talk through realistic expectations at your consultation, and some people choose to repeat treatment later to maintain results.
How much does Ultherapy cost in London?
The cost depends on the areas treated and how much treatment you need, so we confirm your price after a consultation. You can see how we present prices on our price list. Ultherapy for the full face and neck is quoted individually rather than at a fixed price, because a brow-only plan is very different from a face, neck and décolletage plan.
Ultherapy compared with other lifting options
| Option | How it works | Downtime | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultherapy | Microfocused ultrasound heats deep layers and builds collagen | Minimal | Early to moderate laxity; gradual, natural change |
| Radiofrequency tightening (for example FaceTite) | Radiofrequency heat delivered under the skin through a fine cannula | More than Ultherapy; swelling and bruising are possible | Jowls, jawline and neck laxity |
| Thread lift (PDO threads) | Dissolvable threads placed under the skin to lift tissue | Short recovery; swelling or bruising possible | Localised lifting |
| Surgical facelift | Surgery removes and repositions tissue | Longest | Significant sagging |
Choosing a practitioner for Ultherapy in London
Ask who will carry out your treatment, how they were trained, and whether the device uses ultrasound visualisation. At The London Cosmetic Clinic, treatments are delivered by experienced cosmetic doctors in a CQC-regulated clinic. You can also check that any practitioner is listed on an accredited register, such as the Save Face register.
Where is the clinic?
We are on the second floor of 4 Harley Street, W1G 9PB, a short walk from Oxford Circus station. See our page on Ultherapy at The London Cosmetic Clinic for more.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is a non-surgical treatment that uses microfocused ultrasound to heat deep layers of skin and stimulate new collagen. It is used to lift and tighten the face, neck and décolletage.
Does Ultherapy work on the neck?
Yes. The neck and the area under the chin are commonly treated. At your consultation we check whether your skin laxity is suited to Ultherapy.
How long do Ultherapy results last?
Results build over around three months and can last over a year, although this varies from person to person.
Does Ultherapy hurt?
Comfort levels differ. Most people feel heat or a burning sensation during treatment that passes quickly afterwards. Your practitioner can advise on managing discomfort.
Who is not suitable for Ultherapy?
It is not ideal for significant excess skin or heavy sagging, where surgery may give a bigger change. Suitability is assessed at consultation based on your skin and medical history.
Can Ultherapy replace a surgical facelift?
For early to moderate laxity it can be an alternative, but it can’t match the change from surgery for advanced sagging.
Book a consultation
You can see a doctor at The London Cosmetic Clinic, 2nd Floor, 4 Harley Street, London W1G 9PB, a short walk from Oxford Circus station. Call 0203 581 3391 or send us a message. Our current prices are on the price list.
Book a consultation online.
